Major improvement works at Bedford Lock have been completed as part of a £5.2 million investment programme across the Anglian waterways network.
The Environment Agency says the work will improve reliability and safety for boaters using the River Great Ouse through Bedford after a series of upgrades to the lock.
The project has included the replacement of the downstream lock gates, the installation of a new upstream landing stage, and the stabilisation of the lock chamber wall.
Read: Everything you need to know as Bedford River Festival returns next month
According to the Environment Agency, the improvements are designed to address issues that have disrupted boaters and to ensure the lock continues to operate safely and reliably throughout the year.
A final phase of work is still planned later this year, when improvements will be made to the downstream landing stage.
The Bedford scheme forms part of a wider £5.2 million investment programme delivered by the Environment Agency across the Anglian Waterways network during 2025/26.
Other projects
Other projects have included renewable energy improvements at Titchmarsh Lock on the River Nene, where solar panels have been installed to power the guillotine gate.
Major lock upgrades at Brampton on the River Great Ouse and Wansford on the River Nene have also taken place.
Environment Agency Anglian Waterways manager Katherine Briscombe said: “We are delighted to have completed this range of works to get the Anglian Waterways open for business across summer 2026.
“In total, we invested more than £5.2 million during 2025/26 and look forward to delivering more investment programmes in the coming years that will further improve our customers’ experiences on the local waterways.
“With all these improvements and the prospect of a long summer ahead, there isn’t a better time to get out on the river.”
The Environment Agency manages more than 600 miles of inland waterways across England, with funding supported through boat registration fees.
The organisation said 35 unregistered boats were removed from Anglian waterways during the 2025/26 season as part of efforts to tackle non-compliance.
